Illinois driving questions, answered
What a new driver in Illinois asks, answered in two or three sentences from Illinois’s own manual, code, court schedule or licensing pages, and kept only after every figure in it was found in the source it cites. How the answers are made
What happens if I get pulled over and I don't have my license on me?
Illinois law says you must carry your license or permit whenever you drive and hand it to the officer when asked, so you can be charged. If you show the court that you had a valid license at the time, you won't be convicted.
Sources: 625 ILCS 5/6-112 · as of 7 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I get caught texting while driving?
Texting while driving is against the law, and Illinois law treats it as a traffic offense, so you can get a ticket. The fine is up to $75 for a first offense and up to $100 for a second. If your texting causes a crash that seriously hurts or kills someone, the fine is at least $1,000.
Sources: Illinois driver’s manual p. 22 · 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What happens if I'm driving past my curfew with a provisional license?
Under Illinois law, if you're under 18, your license isn't valid for driving from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Sunday through Thursday, it's not valid from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. That doesn't apply if you're with a parent, heading straight to or from work, or in an emergency.
Sources: 625 ILCS 5/6-110 · as of 7 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How many friends can I have in the car when I first get my license?
For your first 12 months with a license, or until you turn 18, you can carry only 1 passenger under 20. Brothers, sisters, stepsiblings and your own kids don't count toward that limit.
Sources: Illinois driver’s manual p. 18 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How long do I have to hold my permit before I can take the road test?
If you're 15 to 17, you must hold your instruction permit for at least 9 months in a row before you can get your license.
Sources: Illinois driver’s manual p. 16 · Illinois Secretary of State — Graduated Driver's License · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
What car insurance do I need to drive?
You need liability insurance, which covers injuries or damage you cause to other people or their property. The minimums are $25,000 for one person hurt, $50,000 for more than one, $20,000 for property.
Sources: Illinois driver’s manual p. 98 · Illinois Secretary of State — FAQ · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
What happens if I crash my parents' car?
If anyone is hurt or killed, or damage is over $1,500, a crash report must be filed, whoever's fault. Under Illinois law, if no officer is there, you must call the police right away.
Sources: Illinois driver’s manual p. 54 · 625 ILCS 5/11-407 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 14 October 2026.
How far from a fire hydrant do I have to park?
You can't park or stand within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
Sources: Illinois driver’s manual p. 35 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Can I use my phone at a red light?
No, not a handheld phone. You may only hold your phone to report an emergency, while parked on the shoulder, or while stopped in blocked traffic with the car in neutral or park.
Sources: Illinois driver’s manual p. 22 · as of 14 Sep 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
How much is the fine for speeding in a school zone?
Illinois law sets a minimum fine of $150 for a first school-zone speeding ticket, and at least $300 after that. The court also orders community service.
Sources: 625 ILCS 5/11-605 · as of 7 Oct 2026
Answered on 11 October 2026.
Any question about Illinois driving law can be asked in the box, not only these: each answer comes from Illinois’s own manual or code, cited. Ask a question